Amsterdam boasts the Netherlands' largest and one of Europe's foremost streetcar (tram) networks.
The Tram Network
The network features radial and circular lines spanning out primarily from Amsterdam Central Station and Dam Square. A total of 16 lines are in operation. Shared tracks are used in the city center, while dedicated tracks, such as center-reservation type tracks, are used in the suburbs. Furthermore, on narrow streets, the passage of general vehicles within the tram tracks is restricted, allowing only authorized vehicles to travel.
The tram system is operated by the "Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf (GVB)," which also manages the subway and bus systems. GVB is a company 100% owned by the City of Amsterdam.
The Role of Trams
In the old city center, roads are narrow and the use of private cars is difficult, making the tram one of the main modes of transport. The limited bus services also increase the importance of the tram. As described, Amsterdam's tram system features a comprehensive network of radial and circular lines and functions as a principal means of transportation within the city.
アムステルダムはオランダの首都(しゅと)で、商業(しょうぎょう)と観光(かんこう)が盛(さか)んな世界(せかい)都市(とし)です。アムステル川(がわ)の河口(かこう)に築(きず)かれ、海運(かいうん)貿易(ぼうえき)の港町(みなとまち)として栄(さか)え、美(うつく)しい運河(うんが)や歴史的(れきしてき)な建物(たてもの)が魅力(みりょく)。干拓(かんたく)によって建設(けんせつ)された土地(とち)に位置(いち)し、内陸(ないりく)部(ぶ)の都市(とし)より歴史(れきし)が浅(あさ)いですが、後半(こうはん)になると交易(こうえき)の拠(よりどころ)点(てん)となり、急速(きゅうそく)に発展(はってん)しました。Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, a global city with thriving commerce and tourism. Built at the mouth of the Amstel River, it flourished as a port for maritime trade, and is attractive for its beautiful canals and historical buildings. Located on land constructed through polders (land reclamation), it has a shorter history than inland cities but became a trading hub and developed rapidly in the latter half of its history.
アムステルダムはオランダの首都(しゅと)で、商業(しょうぎょう)と観光(かんこう)が盛(さか)んな世界(せかい)都市(とし)です。アムステル川(がわ)の河口(かこう)に築(きず)かれ、海運(かいうん)貿易(ぼうえき)の港町(みなとまち)として栄(さか)え、美(うつく)しい運河(うんが)や歴史的(れきしてき)な建物(たてもの)が魅力(みりょく)。干拓(かんたく)によって建設(けんせつ)された土地(とち)に位置(いち)し、内陸(ないりく)部(ぶ)の都市(とし)より歴史(れきし)が浅(あさ)いですが、後半(こうはん)になると交易(こうえき)の拠(よりどころ)点(てん)となり、急速(きゅうそく)に発展(はってん)しました。Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, a global city with thriving commerce and tourism. Built at the mouth of the Amstel River, it flourished as a port for maritime trade, and is attractive for its beautiful canals and historical buildings. Located on land constructed through polders (land reclamation), it has a shorter history than inland cities but became a trading hub and developed rapidly in the latter half of its history.
アムステルダムは、歴史と文化が残る魅力的な都市であり、オランダの経済と金融の中心地としても重要な役割を果たしています。History of Amsterdam
It began as a small fishing village in the 12th century and became a global port city during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. In the 17th century, it was a center for finance and trade, as well as an art center. Following independence from Spain, religious tolerance increased, leading to an influx of immigrants.
Tourist Attractions and Highlights
The city's canal ring is famous and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also famous tourist destinations such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House. Furthermore, it is known as a cycling city with well-maintained bike lanes. Its vibrant nightlife and festivals also attract attention.
Economy and Culture
It is the financial and business center of the Netherlands. Many major corporations, including Heineken, ING, and Philips, have their headquarters here. Schiphol Airport is one of Europe's leading hub airports. Due to its early acceptance of immigrants, it is also a multicultural city where people of over 180 nationalities live.
Amsterdam is a charming city steeped in history and culture, and it plays a vital role as the economic and financial center of the Netherlands.